JOHOR BARU: About 17.5 million users nationwide have jumped on the 5G network so far and the system will be expanded, says Gobind Singh Deo.
The Digital Minister said his ministry, through Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB), would continue to provide 5G infrastructure as the high number of usage shows there is interest in the network.
“DNB is expanding the 5G network, which has currently exceeded 82% coverage in populated areas.
“At the same time, we also want to ensure all infrastructure is safe, especially when it comes to cybersecurity and user data,” he told reporters after launching the Transforming Manufacturing with 5G and artificial intelligence (AI) programme here yesterday.
Gobind said his ministry would be setting up a branch in Medini9, Iskandar Puteri, soon to provide the necessary support for the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).
When asked whether the government has set any limits to the number of data centres in Johor, Gobind said no cap was fixed but every application will undergo thorough examination.
“We will look at the suitability of the investment first, such as the land requirements and utility supplies needed, and the state government will assist in this process,” he said, adding the government also wants AI data centres to be set up in the state.
In October, Gobind said there were more than 50 data centres in Johor, either in application, construction or already operational.
The number of data centres is also expected to increase with the implementation of the JS-SEZ.
Meanwhile, Gobind said the ministry is supportive of universities and other higher education institutions that want to set up an AI faculty to produce more talents in the future.
He said such courses are currently being offered in Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM).
“Moving forward, the nation needs many more talents who are skilled in AI technology.
“At the moment, infrastructure is being built and we will need skilled individuals to operate them.
“This reflects the need to ensure we have highly-skilled people. As such, AI faculties should be expanded to other universities,” he added.
In September, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim commended UTM for setting up the country’s first AI faculty, saying it was a key step towards talent development in line with growth and investment initiatives in Johor’s economic and financial zones.
